Hibernian head coach David Gray has acknowledged that Sunday’s Edinburgh derby at Easter Road carries extra weight because of what is at stake for both clubs – but he insists his side’s primary focus remains on their own objectives.
Derby Dynamics
Speaking to Sky Sports News, Gray was clear about the magnitude of the fixture. “Regardless of league position, what you’re going for, the derbies are always massive,” he said. “We could be going first game of the season, last game of the season. The games are huge, the bragging rights are so important.”
Hearts currently sit one point clear of Rangers at the top of the Scottish Premiership table heading into the post-split fixtures, while Hibs occupy fifth place. A victory for the Hibees would not only boost their own push for a second consecutive top-four finish but also deal a significant blow to Hearts’ bid for their first top-flight title since 1960.
When asked whether stopping the Jambos’ title charge adds an extra incentive, Gray replied: “I get paid to win games of football. That’s the most important thing. If we win this weekend, you get both, so everybody’s happy from a Hibs perspective.”
Key Takeaways
- Derby significance: The match is crucial for both teams – Hearts chasing the title, Hibs aiming for a top-four finish.
- Gray’s stance: The Hibs boss is focused on his own side’s performance, but acknowledges the bonus of damaging Hearts’ title hopes.
- Recent form: Hibs won the last home derby 3-2, but have lost both away games at Tynecastle this season.
- Confidence at home: Gray takes confidence from the home win, saying Hibs “really dominated the game” and “fully deserved to win across the piece.”
Infographic: Edinburgh Derby at a Glance
Venue: Easter Road, Edinburgh
Date: Sunday, April 26
Kick-off: 4:30pm (Live on Sky Sports)
League positions: Hearts 1st (1pt clear of Rangers) | Hibs 5th
Last meeting (home): Hibs 3-2 Hearts
This season’s away record for Hibs: Two defeats at Tynecastle
Performance vs Result
Gray stressed that while performance levels are important, the result is paramount. “I talk about performance levels, it’s all about the result this weekend, we know that,” he added. The Hibs boss is keen to build on the momentum from their last home derby victory, where they were dominant from start to finish.
The match is part of a blockbuster post-split schedule that includes several high-stakes fixtures. April 26 sees Hibs host Hearts, followed by Celtic vs Falkirk on April 25, and later Rangers vs Hearts on May 4, among others.
For Hibs, the immediate target is clear: secure three points against their city rivals and keep their top-four ambitions alive. If that also derails Hearts’ title charge, Gray won’t be complaining.